Patient Harm, Claims and Compensation

If a patient suffers harm and a claim succeeds, there must be a way for them to receive appropriate compensation. The GDC links indemnity to patient protection as well as professional defence.

A claim may arise from a dental nursing action, team process, delegated task, recordkeeping, communication failure, infection prevention lapse, equipment handling, aftercare, or missed escalation. Dental nurses should not fear routine work, but must recognise that safe systems, accurate records and suitable cover work together.

If harm or a possible claim arises

• Make the patient safe and follow local clinical escalation.
• Record facts promptly and accurately.
• Do not alter records or speculate.
• Follow complaints, incident and candour processes.
• Escalate compensation demands, legal threats or serious allegations.
• Seek senior or indemnity advice through the appropriate route.

Dental nurses should avoid admitting liability, promising refunds or offering legal opinions alone. They can listen, acknowledge distress, protect privacy, record facts and ensure the issue reaches the right person quickly.

Apology and liability

Indemnity does not replace safe care. It supports safe systems, honest records, early escalation and patient-centred communication.